Dr. James D. Namnoum | Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
Face Procedures
Deep Plane Facelift Surgery in Atlanta:
Restore Youthful Contours with Dr. James Namnoum
As we age, our faces tell the story of our lives—but sometimes that story includes unwanted chapters of sagging skin, deep creases, and loss of definition. For many patients in Atlanta and the surrounding areas, these visible signs of aging can feel at odds with how vibrant and energetic they feel inside. If you’re looking to restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance without looking overdone, facelift surgery offers a transformative solution.
Dr. James Namnoum, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience, specializes in creating natural-looking facial rejuvenation results that help patients look as good as they feel. His artistic approach to facelift surgery—combined with advanced surgical techniques and meticulous attention to detail—has made him a trusted choice for patients throughout Atlanta seeking comprehensive facial restoration.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift, medically known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to address the visible signs of facial aging by lifting and tightening the skin and underlying facial structures. Over time, gravity, sun exposure, and the natural aging process cause the skin to lose elasticity, leading to sagging tissues in the cheeks, jowls, and neck area.1
During a facelift procedure, Dr. Namnoum makes carefully placed incisions—typically around the ears and within the hairline—to access the deeper layers of facial tissue. The underlying muscles and connective tissues are then lifted, tightened, and repositioned to restore facial definition and contour. Excess skin is carefully removed, and the remaining skin is re-draped for a smooth, natural appearance.
As Dr. Namnoum explains, “A facelift isn’t about pulling the skin tight—it’s about restoring the natural architecture of the face. When you lift and support the deeper structures, the skin naturally follows, creating results that look refreshed rather than stretched.”
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery offers comprehensive facial rejuvenation with benefits that extend far beyond aesthetics:
Restored Facial Definition
A facelift refines and defines the jawline, neck, and midface, improving overall facial contours and creating a naturally rejuvenated appearance. By repositioning sagging tissues, the procedure restores the youthful angles and definition that may have been lost to aging.
Improved Self-Confidence
Many patients report a significant boost in self-esteem following facelift surgery. When your external appearance aligns with how you feel internally, it can positively impact your personal and professional life. Patients report high satisfaction rates with facial rejuvenation procedures, with approximately 85-90% of patients reporting improved quality of life and self-confidence post-surgery.23
Long-Lasting Results
Unlike non-surgical treatments, facelift results are durable and long-lasting. While the aging process continues naturally, the improvements achieved through surgery typically last 10-15 years or longer, depending on individual factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and sun exposure.
Natural, Refreshed Appearance
Dr. Namnoum’s philosophy centers on creating results that look naturally refreshed rather than artificially “done.” The goal is for patients to look well-rested and rejuvenated—not pulled or pinched.
Youthful Facial Contours
Sagging skin and jowls can create a prematurely aged appearance. By lifting and tightening these areas, facelift surgery helps restore the youthful contours that define a more youthful face.
Your Facelift Options
Dr. Namnoum takes a personalized approach to every patient, tailoring the procedure to individual anatomy, aging patterns, and aesthetic goals. Depending on the extent of facial aging and personal preferences, several facelift options may be recommended:
Mini Facelift
A mini facelift is ideal for patients with moderate signs of aging who prefer a less invasive approach. This procedure targets the lower half of the face and neck, focusing on improving the appearance of excess skin of the neck, jawline, and jowl.
Mini Facelift Benefits:
- Shorter, less invasive procedure than a full facelift
- Minimal scarring with incisions placed along the lower front of the ears
- Faster recovery compared to full facelift procedures
- Appropriate for younger patients or those with moderate aging signs
- Results in a more defined jawline and reduced jowling
Full Facelift
A full facelift is better suited for patients with more severe signs of facial aging, including deep folds, wrinkles, and loose, sagging skin in multiple facial areas. This comprehensive approach addresses aging throughout the face and neck.
During a full facelift, Dr. Namnoum typically makes incisions along the hairline and in front of the ear, extending down and around the earlobe. The specific incision placement varies based on individual anatomy and treatment goals. Once incisions are made, excess skin is removed, underlying facial muscles are tightened, and facial tissues are repositioned for a refreshed, sculpted appearance.
Full Facelift Benefits:
- Comprehensive facial rejuvenation addressing multiple areas
- Significant improvement in facial contour and definition
- Scars are well-hidden within the hairline and natural facial contours
- Appropriate for patients with severe signs of facial aging
- Results can turn back the clock 10-15 years or more
Deep Plane Facelift
A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique designed to address more significant facial aging by repositioning the deeper facial structures rather than focusing on skin tightening alone. This approach targets the deeper muscular and connective tissue layers of the face, allowing for more comprehensive rejuvenation of the midface, jawline, and neck.
Unlike traditional facelift techniques that rely primarily on skin redraping, a deep plane facelift releases and repositions the facial tissues as a single unit. This allows sagging cheeks, jowls, and deep folds to be corrected at their source, creating smoother transitions and more natural-looking contours.
Dr. Namnoum carefully evaluates each patient to determine whether a deep plane approach is appropriate based on facial anatomy, degree of tissue descent, and aesthetic goals. When indicated, this technique can produce especially balanced, long-lasting results without a tight or pulled appearance.
Deep Plane Facelift Benefits:
- Rejuvenates the midface, jawline, and nasolabial folds more effectively
- Addresses deeper tissue descent rather than skin laxity alone
- Creates smoother, more natural facial contours
- Particularly beneficial for patients with moderate to advanced facial aging
- Results often age gracefully as the face continues to mature naturally
Facelift with Facial Fat Grafting
Recognized as a cornerstone of modern facelift surgery, facial fat grafting can be seamlessly combined with facelift procedures to restore lost facial volume and create a more youthful, rested appearance.
As patients age, they experience natural loss of facial fat in key areas—the temples, under the eyes, cheeks, jawline, and lips. This volume loss contributes significantly to an aged appearance. During facial fat grafting, small quantities of fat are harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs using gentle liposuction, then carefully transferred to facial areas that have lost volume.
Facial Fat Grafting Can Restore Volume In:
- Temporal hollows (sides of the forehead)
- Under-eye area (tear trough)
- Cheeks and midface
- Jawline definition
- Lips (upper and lower)
- Chin
The fat used is completely natural and long-lasting, providing results that synthetic fillers cannot duplicate. Because the fat is your own tissue, there’s no risk of allergic reaction, and results continue to improve as the transferred fat establishes its blood supply. Many patients find that combining facelift with facial fat grafting creates a more comprehensive, natural-looking rejuvenation.
Complementary Laser Skin Resurfacing
For many patients, Dr. Namnoum recommends combining facelift surgery with laser skin resurfacing to address age-related skin concerns and sun damage. Using Sciton’s Erbium Laser (fully ablative), he can correct hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, fine and coarse wrinkles, and skin laxity for dramatic improvement in skin texture and luminescence.
Good Candidates for Facelift Surgery
Ideal candidates for facelift surgery in Atlanta typically share these characteristics:
- General good health with no serious medical conditions that would complicate surgery or recovery
- Fair to good skin elasticity to ensure optimal results and healing
- Realistic expectations about what facelift surgery can achieve
- Desire for improvement in facial contours, sagging skin, jowls, or deep creases
- Non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery (smoking impairs healing)
- Commitment to sun protection and skincare to maintain results long-term4
While most patients seeking facelift procedures are in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, there is no ideal age for this surgery. The decision depends on individual factors including genetics, lifestyle, sun exposure, and personal aging patterns. Some patients benefit from facelift surgery in their late 30s, while others wait until their 70s.
During your consultation, Dr. Namnoum will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether facelift surgery is the right choice for you—or if a combination of procedures might better address your concerns.
What to Expect During Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia at Dr. Namnoum’s state-of-the-art surgical facility in Atlanta. The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the extent of surgery and whether additional procedures (such as facial fat grafting or laser resurfacing) are being performed.
The Surgical Process:
- Anesthesia: You’ll be placed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
- Incision Placement: Dr. Namnoum makes carefully planned incisions, typically beginning in the hairline above the ear, continuing around the front of the ear, and extending behind the ear into the hairline. Incision placement is customized based on your individual anatomy and treatment goals.
- Tissue Elevation and Tightening: The skin is gently lifted to access the underlying facial muscles (SMAS layer) and connective tissues. These deeper structures are lifted, tightened, and repositioned to restore facial contours and support.
- Fat Grafting (if applicable): If facial fat grafting is part of your procedure, fat is harvested and carefully injected into areas of volume loss.
- Skin Re-draping: The skin is re-draped over the newly lifted and tightened structures, and excess skin is carefully removed.
- Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures, and dressings are applied.
Throughout the procedure, Dr. Namnoum’s focus remains on creating natural-looking results that enhance your appearance without appearing overdone.
Facelift Recovery: What to Expect
Understanding the recovery process helps you prepare mentally and logistically for your facelift surgery. While individual recovery varies, here’s a general timeline:
- You’ll experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising—this is completely normal
- Bandages will be in place to support healing
- Pain medication will be prescribed to manage discomfort
- Keep your head elevated as much as possible to minimize swelling
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting
- You’ll have limited mobility but should begin gentle movement as directed
- Stitches are typically removed around day 5
- Swelling and bruising begin to decrease but are still visible
- Most patients can manage light activities around the house
- Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and bending
- Continue head elevation and follow all post-op instructions
- Many patients feel ready to be around close family and friends
- Significant reduction in swelling and bruising
- Most patients feel comfortable returning to work (depending on job demands)
- Light exercise may be resumed with doctor approval
- Makeup can typically be applied to cover any remaining bruising
- You’ll begin to see the initial results of your surgery
- Most visible swelling has subsided
- You can typically resume normal activities and exercise
- Results continue to improve as residual swelling resolves
- Scars begin to fade and mature
- Most patients see their final results by 4-6 weeks post-op
- Residual swelling continues to resolve gradually over several months
- Scars continue to mature and fade over 12-18 months
- You can resume all normal activities and exercise
Important Recovery Notes:
Most facelift patients experience moderate discomfort in the immediate post-operative period and mild discomfort during the first week. Bruising typically lasts 2-3 weeks, while swelling can persist for several months but diminishes progressively.
Dr. Namnoum recommends that patients:
- Take at least 1-2 weeks off work for initial recovery
- Wait 3-4 weeks before returning to strenuous exercise
- Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 30+ sunscreen for at least 6 weeks
- Sleep with head elevated on 2-3 pillows for the first 2 weeks
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke during recovery
- Follow all post-operative instructions carefully
Facelift Results: How Long Do They Last?
One of the most appealing aspects of facelift surgery is the longevity of results. Facelift results typically last 10-15 years, with many patients enjoying benefits for 15-20 years or longer.
The longevity of your results depends on several factors:
- Your genetics: Some people age more slowly than others
- Sun exposure: UV damage accelerates aging; consistent sun protection extends results
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, poor diet, and stress can accelerate aging
- Skincare routine: A consistent skincare regimen helps maintain results
- Natural aging process: While your face will continue to age naturally after surgery, it will age from a more youthful starting point
Many patients choose to combine facelift surgery with non-surgical maintenance treatments—such as Botox, dermal fillers, or laser skin treatments—to extend and enhance their results over time.
Can I Combine Facelift Surgery with Other Procedures?
Absolutely. Many patients choose to combine facelift surgery with complementary procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation:
Commonly Combined Procedures:
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Rejuvenates the eyes by removing excess skin and fat from upper and lower eyelids
- Neck Lift: Tightens loose skin and muscle in the neck area for a more defined neckline
- Facial Fat Grafting: Restores lost volume for a more youthful, rested appearance
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: Addresses fine wrinkles, sun damage, and skin texture
- Brow lift: Elevates and rejuvenates eyebrow, upper face and eyelid
- BOTOX – Smooths dynamic wrinkles on forehead, brows, and eyes
- Dermal Fillers – Restores volume in cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds
- Lip Lift – Enhances lip position and fullness for youthful appearance
The advantage of combining procedures is that recovery time doesn’t necessarily extend proportionally. Many patients find that addressing multiple areas of concern in a single surgical session produces more harmonious, balanced results.
During your consultation, Dr. Namnoum will discuss which combination of procedures might best address your aesthetic goals.
Facelift Risks and Safety Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, facelift surgery carries some risks. However, when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility, serious complications are rare.
Potential Risks Include:
- Bleeding or hematoma (fluid collection)
- Infection
- Temporary or permanent numbness
- Temporary facial nerve weakness
- Unfavorable scarring
- Asymmetry
- Hair loss at incision sites
- Skin necrosis (rare)
- Deep vein thrombosis (rare)
- Anesthesia-related complications (rare)5
Dr. Namnoum prioritizes patient safety through:
- Thorough pre-operative medical evaluation
- Use of accredited surgical facilities with full monitoring capabilities
- Meticulous surgical technique to minimize complications
- Comprehensive post-operative care and follow-up
- Clear communication about risks and realistic expectations
During your consultation, Dr. Namnoum will discuss all potential risks specific to your situation and answer any safety concerns.
Facelift Scarring: What You Should Know
One of the most common patient concerns about facelift surgery is scarring. The good news is that Dr. Namnoum places incisions strategically to minimize visibility:
Incision Placement:
- Incisions begin in the hairline above the ear, where they’re hidden by hair
- They continue around the front of the ear, following the natural contours
- They extend behind the ear and into the hairline at the back of the head
- When properly closed, these incisions are well-hidden in natural facial contours
Scar Maturation:
- Scars appear red and slightly raised immediately after surgery
- Over 3-6 months, scars fade and flatten
- By 12-18 months, most scars are barely visible
- Continued improvement occurs over 2 years
Scar Care:
- Keep incisions clean and dry during initial healing
- Avoid sun exposure to healing scars
- Use silicone-based scar treatments as recommended
- Avoid smoking, which impairs scar healing
- Follow all post-operative care instructions
With Dr. Namnoum’s meticulous surgical technique and attention to scar placement, most patients find that their scars are virtually undetectable, especially when hair covers the incision sites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Facelift Surgery
How do I prepare for my facelift?
Dr. Namnoum will provide detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your situation. Generally, preparation includes:
- Stopping certain medications (especially blood thinners) 1-2 weeks before surgery
- Avoiding smoking and nicotine products for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery
- Avoiding alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery
- Arranging transportation to and from surgery
- Having someone stay with you for at least 24 hours post-op
- Preparing your home for recovery (comfortable pillows, entertainment, easy meals)
- Following all fasting instructions the night before surgery
Is an overnight hospital stay required?
No. Facelift surgery is performed in Dr. Namnoum’s state-of-the-art outpatient surgical center in Atlanta. Most patients go home the same day, typically a few hours after surgery. You must have someone drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours. Depending on your individual situation, Dr. Namnoum may recommend a private nurse for the first night.
Will I have visible scars after my facelift?
Dr. Namnoum works meticulously to ensure that scars are placed in natural facial contours and hidden by the hairline. Most scars fade significantly over time and become barely visible, especially when hair covers them. Scar appearance continues to improve for up to 2 years post-op.
Can I combine facelift surgery with other procedures?
Yes, many patients combine facelift with complementary procedures such as brow lift, eyelid surgery, neck lift, facial fat grafting, laser skin resurfacing, or other treatments. Combining procedures often produces more harmonious results without significantly extending recovery time.
How long do facelift results last?
Facelift results typically last 10-15 years or longer, depending on genetics, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare habits. While your face will continue to age naturally after surgery, it will age from a more youthful starting point. Many patients maintain results longer through non-surgical treatments like Botox and dermal fillers.
When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to desk work after 2-3 weeks, once visible bruising has faded. If your job involves physical activity or client-facing interactions where appearance is important, you may want to wait 3-4 weeks. Dr. Namnoum will provide specific guidance based on your job demands and healing progress.
When can I resume exercise?
Light walking can resume after 1-2 weeks. More strenuous exercise should wait until 3-4 weeks post-op, with full exercise resumption by 4-6 weeks. Dr. Namnoum will provide specific clearance based on your individual healing.
Where can I find a facelift near me in Atlanta?
Dr. James Namnoum offers comprehensive facelift surgery and facial rejuvenation procedures at his state-of-the-art surgical center in Atlanta. With over 25 years of experience and a commitment to natural-looking results, Dr. Namnoum has helped countless patients throughout Atlanta and the surrounding areas restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance. His personalized approach ensures that your facelift is tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and discover how facelift surgery can help you look as good as you feel.
Can I combine facelift with facial fat grafting?
Absolutely. Facial fat grafting is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of modern facelift surgery. By combining facelift with facial fat grafting, you can address both sagging skin and volume loss, creating a more comprehensive rejuvenation. The fat is your own tissue, making it completely natural and long-lasting. Many patients find that this combination produces superior results compared to facelift alone, creating a more youthful, rested appearance with restored facial contours and volume.
About Dr. James Namnoum
Dr. James D. Namnoum is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive training and experience in facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
For consultations and to schedule your facelift surgery, contact Dr. Namnoum’s office at your earliest convenience.
- Medical Degree: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- General Surgery Residency: Johns Hopkins Hospital (1987-1993)
- Plastic Surgery Fellowship: Johns Hopkins Hospital (1993-1995)
- Fellowship: Advanced training in breast reconstruction and aesthetic surgery (1996)
- Board Certification: American Board of Plastic Surgery (1998)
- Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Member: American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
- Traveling Professor: American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Member: American Association of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS)
- Member: Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (SESPRS)
- Founder & Chairman: AYA Medical Spa
- Director: Atlanta Breast Surgery Symposium
1 Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Age, sunlight, and facial skin: a histologic and quantitative study. Available: https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(08)80964-4/abstract. Accessed October 23, 2025.
2 Sinno S, Schwitzer J, Anzai L, Thorne CH. Face-Lift Satisfaction Using the FACE-Q. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015 Aug;136(2):239-242. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000001412. PMID: 25909302. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25909302/. Accessed October 23, 2025.
3 Berger M, Weigert R, Pascal E, Hufschmidt K, Casoli V. Assessing Improvement of Patient Satisfaction Following Facelift Surgery Using the FACE-Q Scales: A Prospective and Multicenter Study. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2019 Apr;43(2):370-375. doi: 10.1007/s00266-018-1277-9. Epub 2018 Nov 28. Erratum in: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2019 Aug;43(4):1132. doi: 10.1007/s00266-019-01405-6. PMID: 30488241. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30488241/. Accessed October 23, 2025.
4 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a candidate for facelift? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/facelift/candidates. Accessed October 23, 2025.
5 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What Are The Risks of Facelift Surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/facelift/safety. Accessed October 23, 2025.
